COYOTE SIGHTINGS

Residents have reported that they have spotted coyote in Grand Beach. Under Michigan law, coyotes may be taken all year on private property by the property owner or their designee when
coyotes are doing or about to do damage to their property. A permit is not required, and the person shall be authorized to take coyote all year by otherwise lawful hunting and trapping methods.
Since hunting and shooting is not permitted in Grand Beach we would recommend a licensed and bonded pest control contractor. You may find them in your yellow pages under "Pest Control Services" or “Animal Control Services".
Here is an interesting YouTube.com video regarding coyotes

BLACK BEAR SIGHTINGS

A black bear was seen recently in Grand Beach in the nature preserve near Erich Lane. If you happen to encounter the bear, just leave it alone and it will likely move on. Bears are secretive and shy by nature but are always searching for food sources. Here are a few tips:
1. If you have any birdfeeders or any kind food lying around outside your property please remove it.
2. Please put your trash out the morning of pickup and put cans away after collection.
3. The grease from barbeque pits attract bears so please put them away in a secured area. Keep picnic areas and patios clean.
4. NEVER intentionally feed a black bear. They are wild animals and unpredictable.
5. Black bears are generally fearful of humans and will leave if they are aware of your presence. In the rare circumstance that you encounter bear that does not turn and leave, first try to scare it off by yelling while leaving a clear, unobstructed escape route for the bear. If the bear stands its ground, makes threatening sounds, or bluff charges, you are too close. Take slow steps backward while continuing to talk to the bear in a stern tone. In the rare event of an attack, fight back with a backpack, stick or your bare hands. Black bears have retreated in similar situations. Always remember people share in the responsibility of avoiding bear conflicts.
We ask residents to keep their eyes open and report any sighting to the Grand Beach Police department.
Grand Beach Police: 269-469-5000 (office) -or- 866-630-7679 (dispatch)
DNR Hotline: 800-292-7800 -or- 269-685-6851 (Plainwell office)